State park system says thanks to volunteers

Special to The Record

Published Sunday, December 28, 2003

TALLAHASSEE -- Volunteers in Florida's award-winning state parks -- including volunteers who serve the parks in the First Coast area -- are saving taxpayers more than $17.4 million every year. This year alone, park volunteers contributed nearly one million hours of work to the State -- the equivalent of 449 full-time employment positions, almost half of the size of the state park workforce.

"Dedicated volunteers work with our professional staff to protect our natural, historical and cultural resources and provide an enjoyable experience for 18 million visitors annually. They are one of the reasons people can continue to enjoy each natural gem for just a few dollars a day."

More than 6,000 park volunteers help maintain the natural beauty of Florida's beaches, waterways and trails. Volunteers wear a variety of hats ranging from interpreters, educators, tour guides and greeters to landscape artists, wildlife caretakers and invasive plant removers.

"While many states are closing parks and reducing staff, Florida state parks continue to grow," said Mike Bullock, director of DEP's Division of Recreation and Parks. "Florida is proving that an investment in environmental protection and outdoor recreation provides a significant economic boost to rural communities."

Recognized in 1999 as best in the nation, Florida's state park system is one of the largest in the country with 157 parks covering more than 600,000 acres. Last year, Florida's parks attracted 18.2 million visitors and pumped $574 million into local economies.

For more information about Florida's state park system and its volunteer program, visit www.FloridaStateParks.org www.FloridaStateParks.org .